ADDRESSING THE BURDEN OF DYSPHAGIA

Course overview

Dysphagia is a frequently under reported and under-diagnosed condition present in over 15 million American adults. The condition occurs mostly after stroke but other disease states and even normal aging may contribute to its onset. The impact of dysphagia on patients, families and healthcare settings is significant. Treatment options to date are limited but recently a new approach has proven very successful. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) has received significant attention by dysphagia professionals ever since the FDA cleared VitalStim Therapy for the treatment of dysphagia. Thousands of therapists have received training and numerous positive reports are received but lots of misconceptions and questions remain among therapists. How does it work? Is there data to support its use? This presentation will analyze the financial, emotional and social consequences of dysphagia. It will review current use of NMES by Speech Language Pathologists in the treatment of dysphagia. A background will be presented on the physical properties of electrotherapy and a working model will be presented that explains some of the neurophysiological aspects of electrotherapy used to strengthen the muscles of the swallowing system. Published and emerging research efforts will be reviewed and discussed. Indications, precautions and contraindications will be reviewed and the pros and cons of using this modality in dysphagia management will be discussed.